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D4837-07 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Product Description
This specification, ASTM D4837 – 07 (Reapproved 2012), establishes the requirements for Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PM). PM is a volatile organic solvent widely used in the paint and coatings industry. It is technically a mixture of two isomers: 1-methoxy-2-propanol and 2-methoxy-1-propanol.
⚠️ Rounding Conformance: For purposes of determining conformance, all observed or calculated values must be rounded off “to the nearest unit” in the last right-hand digit used in expressing the specification limit, in accordance with Practice E29.
💡 Safety First: For specific hazard information and guidance, consult the supplier’s Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for all materials listed in this standard.
📊 Key Measured Properties
Propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PM) shall conform to the following physical and chemical requirements.
| 🟦 📏 Property | 🎯 Requirement | ⚡ Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Purity, min, weight % | 99.0 | D4773 |
| Apparent Specific Gravity (20/20°C) | 0.922 to 0.925 | D4052 |
| Apparent Specific Gravity (25/25°C) | 0.918 to 0.921 | D4052 |
| Color (Pt-Co), max | 10 | D1209 / D5386 |
| Water, max, weight % | 0.25 | D1364 |
| Distillation – IBP, °C, min | 117 | D1078 |
| Distillation – Dry Point, °C, max | 125 | D1078 |
| Acidity (as Acetic Acid), max, wt % | 0.01 | D1613 |
✅ Technical Notes: The acidity limit of 0.01% is equivalent to 0.1 mg of potassium hydroxide (KOH) per gram of specimen. Instrumental Pt-Co color determined by Test Method D5386 has shown no statistically significant difference from Pt-Co color determined by Test Method D1209.
📑 Sampling and Test Guidelines
The material shall be sampled in accordance with Practice E300. The properties enumerated in this specification must be determined strictly by the referenced ASTM test methods to ensure consistency in the evaluation of quality and conformance for Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether.
📦 Packaging Reference: For packaging requirements of liquid chemicals, consult U.S. Federal Specification PPP-C-2020 as referenced in the standard.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the composition of Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether per ASTM D4837?
PM is defined as a mixture of two isomers: 1-methoxy-2-propanol and 2-methoxy-1-propanol. The standard requires a minimum purity of 99.0% by weight.
💡 What is the maximum allowable water content for PM?
The maximum water content is 0.25% by weight. This is determined using Test Method D1364 (Karl Fischer Reagent Titration Method).
⚡ What are the strict distillation range limits for this solvent?
The initial boiling point must be a minimum of 117°C, and the dry point must be a maximum of 125°C, ensuring the solvent meets the required volatility profile.
📌 What test method is used for apparent specific gravity?
The apparent specific gravity is determined using Test Method D4052. The specification requires a range of 0.922 to 0.925 for 20/20°C and 0.918 to 0.921 for 25/25°C.